Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is to consider how it can help developers tap into the economic potential of marine energy resources. A paper to the organisation’s Board on Tuesday (16th June) suggests how it can contribute to a programme of research to develop Scotland’s potential for marine renewable energy.

This programme, led by Marine Scotland’s Marine Energy Spatial Planning Group (MESPG), will help fill current knowledge gaps about the links between tidal energy devices and the marine environment.

The best way to prepare for larger-scale developments will be by filling gaps in research, and monitoring single or small developments to test the notion that any impact of the technology will be insignificant. SNH will ensure that assessments and surveys are carried out appropriately.

Interest in deploying tidal turbines is currently believed to be greater in Scottish waters than elsewhere. These waters are important for Scotland’s economy and for the country’s wildlife.

Dominic Counsell, head of SNH’s coastal and marine unit, said: “Combating climate change, by means of renewable energy generation, will produce real gains for Scotland’s natural environment. It is important that Scotland has a strategic approach to developing the sector that meets the aspirations of the industry and the needs of the marine environment. Our role is to help Ministers and developers achieve this.”

He added: “I think we can be very optimistic about Scotland’s potential for marine renewable energy, and that this sector can be developed in harmony with marine wildlife.”

One project SNH is funding is looking at the potential effects of a small scale tidal device in the Isle of May Special Area for Conservation. SNH is also supporting monitoring of the wildlife around the European Marine Energy Centre wave and tidal test facilities in Orkney and contributing to wider work in the Pentland Firth. The organisation has also commissioned additional work this year including research into the interactions between tidal turbines and marine wildlife.

In addition, the Scottish Government is researching the use of acoustic devices to warn marine mammals of renewable energy devices, and assessing collision risks between harbour porpoises and marine energy equipment. Additional studies managed by MESPG include the preparation of a draft Marine Spatial Plan for the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters and the drafting of guidance for developers, on Environmental Impact Assessment and wildlife monitoring.

SNH’s role often involves helping developers to enhance their plans or apply suitable mitigation measures to reduce potential impacts to an acceptable level. Six new specialist advisers are being recruited into SNH in order to meet increasing demand for this service from the marine energy sector.

The SNH Board’s discussion will focus on the environmental issues likely to face marine energy developers and what approaches SNH should take to help address these.